Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Novo Nordisk (NVO) have pioneered a groundbreaking capsule designed to deliver medications directly to the gastrointestinal tract, potentially transforming the landscape of oral drug delivery.
Inspired by the propulsion mechanism of squids, this needle-free microjet system has the potential to enhance drug absorption significantly and overcome the challenges inherent in conventional injections.
"As part of our ongoing efforts, we've been focused on creating systems that facilitate the oral administration of macromolecules traditionally requiring injection. This work signifies one of the most significant advancements in this pursuit," stated Giovanni Traverso, the study's senior author.
Throughout their research, the team conducted experiments on digestive tract tissue, meticulously calculating the precise pressure needed to propel the drugs into the tissue effectively. Subsequently, they engineered capsules designed to target specific areas of the digestive tract.
"In addition to eliminating the risks associated with sharps, high-velocity collimated jets offer a notable advantage in overcoming localization challenges. Unlike a small needle that must be in direct contact with tissue, our experiments suggest that a jet can deliver the majority of the dose from a distance or even at a slight angle," explained Arrick.
In animal trials, the researchers utilized these capsules to administer insulin and the diabetes medication Ozempic. They observed that the drug concentrations achieved in the animals' bloodstream were comparable to those delivered via traditional needle injections.
The scientists anticipate that these innovative capsules will simplify drug administration in home settings, effectively eliminating the necessity of sharp needles.